(stake conf. Sunday 2007) Spiritual resolutions

(stake conf. Sunday 2007)

New Year’s resolutions – According to Webster dictionary - Resolution A: act or process of reducing to simpler form. B: The act of answering or solving. C: act of determining.

We associate New Year’s resolutions with setting of goals or an opportunity to start anew - a chance to change or rededicate our efforts, a determination to do what is right or accomplish what we want.

I think some people hate New Year’s resolutions as much as others like them. One problem I see is that people set goals because deep down they know they need to do something – that many times is hard. To loss weight, exercise and much more.

Spiritually resolutions would include daily scripture reading, personal and family prayer, and temple attendance. The individual repentance of sins would very with each one of us.

These resolutions shouldn’t only be made at the beginning of a New Year. But these should be made continually – or at least weekly as we partake of the sacrament. Renewing our covenants, promises and blessing with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

There are a number of things that can help us this change – or have a resolution to do better

One of these is following the counsel of living prophets.

Gordon B. Hinckley – about Spencer W. Kimball 1985

And now, what an inspiring and delightful experience to hear again as he spoke in the days of his great vitality, our beloved leader, President Kimball. His words have stirred within us anew a resolution to lengthen our stride and quicken our pace in the awesome responsibility to carry the gospel to the world while strengthening the membership wherever there may be weakness. He himself has done that which he has asked others to do and has done it with greater devotion and energy.

I think that all of us would say that President Hinckley has done the same during his time as our beloved prophet.

When I read this quote I thought of King Benjamin – he also did what he ask his people to do. His people were stirred with anew resolution to lengthen their strides.

Mosiah 5: 1-2

And now, it came to pass that when King Benjamin had thus spoken to his people, he sent among them, desiring to know of his people if they believed the words which he had spoken unto them.

And they all cried with one voice, saying: Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.

What an event that must have been – just think how powerful the spirit must have been, that all that were there had no more desire to do evil, but good continually. I’ve felt the Spirit extremely strong many of times in my life. But I wish I could say it made such an impact that I had no disposition to do evil. It has affected me, and through repentance I have always had the desire to be faithful – to hold a current recommend, pay my tithes and offering and fulfill my responsibilities.

The event at King Benjamin’s time was so life changing that it was many year after that there were any major problems in the church. And then it was with the children that were too young to understand what had taken place.

Mosiah 26: 1

Now it came to pass that there were many of the rising generation that could not understand the words of king Benjamin, being little children at the time he spake unto his people; and they did not believe the tradition of their fathers.

We know that included in these individuals was Alma the Younger and the Sons of Mosiah. Who once they repented and came unto the Savior, ended up as some of the greatest missionaries in the Book of Mormon.

As most of you know our conference theme in –

D&C 1:12

Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh;

Brothers and sister, there is not just one area that we all need to prepare in – we need to prepare physically, spiritually, emotionally.

Next month as a stake there will be a preparedness day presented by the Relief Society. This will give the adults an opportunity for hands on examples of what options we have.

If we are to have a life changing events in our lives and with our testimonies - we need to spiritually prepare for such an event. How did King Benjamin’s people prepare themselves for hear his finale sermon, that made such a difference in their lives?

In Mosiah 2 we learn

– of their great Love for their leader – the people ^agathered themselves together throughout all the land, that they might go up to the ^btemple to ^chear the ^dwords which king Benjamin should speak unto them. They were so numerous that they all couldn’t hear his words.

- they came in the attitude of obedience and sacrifice - and they also took of the ^afirstlings of their flocks, that they might offer ^bsacrifice and ^cburnt ^dofferings ^eaccording to the law of Moses;

- they came with an attitude of love and thankfulness, understanding all that the Lord had done for them -and also that they might give thanks to the Lord their God, who had brought them out of the land of Jerusalem, and who had delivered them out of the hands of their enemies, and had ^aappointed just men to be their ^bteachers, and also a just man to be their king, who had established peace in the ^cland of Zarahemla, and who had taught them to ^dkeep the commandments of God, that they might rejoice and be filled with ^elove towards God and all men.

- they came as families, and they pitched their tents round about the temple, every man having his ^atent with the door thereof towards the temple.

Brother and sisters - they came prepared to hear the word of God – to sacrifice in preparation for the Atoning sacrifice of our Lord and Savior. They were thankful for what the Lord had done for them, he had brought them, delivered them, established peace and taught them. Then their family pointed their tent toward the temple.

We must prepare ourselves to have the spirit and then the Lord will allow us to have these life changing experience, that bare witness of the truthfulness of this great work. Many of these experiences are small and come piece by piece – others are earth shaking to those involved, but the preparation is vital.

At our last conference, the Stake Presidency had the opportunity to bare our testimonies. At that time I told about one of these life changing experiences that happened to me as a 12 year old boy in the sacred grove. At that time I received a witness that God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ did appear to the boy prophet Joseph. That event has been an anchor and straight to me throughout my life.

I remember we knew in advance that we would have an opportunity to spend some individual time at that sacred location. I prepared, by reading the Book of Mormon and praying that such an event could happen to me.

Talking about his conversion Elder Packer stated -

I made attempts to read the Book of Mormon. I did not read it all until I was on a troop ship with other bomber crew members, headed for the war in the Pacific.

(I think that would make any of us try harder)

He continued:

I determined that I would read the Book of Mormon and find out for myself whether it is true or not. Carefully I read and reread the book. I tested the promise that it contained. That was a life-changing event. After that, I never set the book aside.

When these manifestations come it’s our opportunity or responsibility to act on them. Like Elder Packer stated – after that, he never put the book aside.

Now is the time for each of us to prepare –

Primary – now is the time for many of you to prepare to be baptized and become member of the Church. Those that have been baptized must live the promises that you have made. You young men in the primary, you need to prepare to receive the Aaronic Priesthood.

Young Man and Young Women- Now is the time to learn how to get answers to your prayers, as each of you have major decision coming up soon that will effect you for eternity. Prepare now - to go to the temple and serve full time missions. You should prepare to receive your patriarchal blessing. You should receive an education or vocational training in order to provide for your families. Most of you will have the opportunity to go to Martins Cove this summer for our youth conference. Now is the time to start preparing to feel the spirit of that sacred location, and understand the sacrifices our ancestors made for us.

Adults -Prepare for possible emergencies, financially and with needed storage or supplies. Prepare spiritually that the spirit might guide us in our time of need. For dedicated service no matter what the call might involve. Prepare to have the spirit in teaching our families about the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The first steps in each of these preparations are to come unto Christ – to receive or strengthen our testimonies that God lives and Jesus is the Christ. For you in the primary – read the scriptures with your family, make sure you are praying everyday, learn and follow the commandment that our Heavenly Father has given us. To those not in the primary – act like you are, become child like in our desire to know God.

In my remarks last night I used the parable of the fig tree in Matt 24, about the second coming of the Savior.

32 Now learn a parable of the ^afig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:

33 So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that ^ait is near, even at the ^bdoors

Brothers and sisters, the Joseph Smith translation of this chapter has just a few differences - in the second verse in stead of saying – So likewise ye, it says - So likewise mine elect shall see.

Indeed it is the elect and those that have the Spirit as their guide that will not be surprised at the coming of the Lord – these are they that will be prepared, these are they that will be excited and are taken up to meet their Savior and Redeemer. In the scriptures it talks about that day as a great and dreadful day of the Lord. Indeed those that are prepared will view it as great, but those that are not will dread their lack of faith and obedience to the commandments and covenants that they have made.

Over the years, some of my kids have played a lot of soccer. When I was younger there were no soccer leagues in Cache Valley, so I never played. I remember going to the games not understanding the rules or the strategy of the game. When our daughter Jayme was playing for Logan High, I remember toward the end of the game that all of the sudden they turned off the scoreboard clock with two minutes remaining. Apparently the referees had been keeping the time on the field and would add time when action is stalled. This would leave the rest of us to wondering how much time is actually left and when the game would end. If the score was tied or close there is an amount of anxiety or urgency to score or to stop your opponent.

This event is similar to the second coming of the Savior. We do not know the hour or the day or the exact moment the game will be over. But we do know that it will be soon. But, unlike the soccer game, we know who is going to win this game. All we need to do is pay the price and be worthy to be on the right team.

Now is the time for us to prepare to meet God – I know that my words aren’t comparable to King Benjamin’s. But I pray that we will each open our hearts to allow the spirit to bare witness of this great work as we are here today, and we too will have no more desire to do evil but good continually.

(Stake Conf. Sat. night) Spiritual preparedness

(Stake Conf. Sat. night)

Our theme for this conference in found in –

D& C. 1: 12

Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh;

The phrase “be prepared” or “being prepared”, I believe brings a number of different thoughts to each of us. To many it would be that of emergency preparedness, including food storage or a 72 hour kit. Which are extremely important and someday many of us may wish we had been more faithful in following that counsel. Many would think of the Scout motto – and the experiences most of us have had as a scout, scout leader or parents. Some would think of preparing for a talk or lesson, the time for preparation is over for me and those sitting on the stand.

Many times these and other situations having to do with preparedness – can bring fear or anxiety to many if not most of us (especially being a scout leader). In modern revelation the Lord had promised that “if ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).

Our theme is given in the first section of the Doctrine and Covenants – but, it wasn’t the first of the revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in that book. In the section heading it reads –

This section constitutes the Lord’s Preface to the doctrines, covenants, and commandments given in this dispensation.

Taken in context, it is given to “ye people of my church” (vs. 1) about the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It’s a voice of warning unto all people, by the mouths of (His) disciples, whom (He has) chosen in these last days (vs.4). Elder Oaks stated that “the Second Coming is an event eagerly awaited by the righteous and dreaded or denied by the wicked.”

I guess the question that we need to ask ourselves is which emotions would overcome us if such an event would happen today – would it be excitement or dread.

Alma asked such a searching question to the saints at his time on whether they are prepared or not –

Alma 5: 27 -28

Have ye walked, keeping yourselves blameless before God? Could ye say, if ye were called to die at this time, within yourselves, that ye have been sufficiently humble? That your garments have been cleansed and made white through the blood of Christ, who will come to redeem his people from their sins?

Behold, are ye stripped of pride? I say unto you, if ye are not ye are not prepared to meet God. Behold ye must prepare quickly; for the kingdom of heaven is soon at hand, and such an one hath not eternal life.

Logically the only thing that should scare us is if we are not prepared.

Saints and Prophets throughout history have continually looked at Second Coming as one the greatest event that will ever happen. Taking a back seat only, to the Atonement and the triumphal death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Elder Oaks in conference a couple of years ago asked –

What if the day of His coming were tomorrow? If we knew that we would meet the Lord tomorrow – through our premature death or through His unexpected coming—what would we do today? What confessions would we make? What practices would we discontinue? What accounts would we settle? What forgiveness would we extend? What testimonies would we bear?

If we would do these things then, why not now? Why not seek peace while peace can be obtained? If our lamps of preparations are drawn down, let us start immediately to replenish them.

We need to make both temporal and spiritual preparations for the events prophesied at the time of the Second Coming. And the preparation most likely to be neglected is the one less visible and more difficult – the spiritual.

I think it is obvious that most of us would act differently if we knew that today was our last day on the earth. I wouldn’t get a hair cut or even shave – especially since they don’t happen very often anyway. I wouldn’t worry about what I ate or if I had exercised or not. These aren’t what Elder Oaks or Alma where referring to – they were talking about things of a spiritual nature, our last and final preparations, to stand before our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

If you’re anything like me, these preparations couldn’t all be accomplished in a day. Nor does the Lord require us to be finished or perfect in our eternal progression on a moments notice. But, there are a lot of things that could be taken care of now that aren’t, there are fences to mend, lost sheep to be found and testimonies to be born.

The life and mission of the Savior was wholly dedicated and centered on the will of the Father and the redemption and salvation of mankind.

A question we should evaluate is if such a short-term preparation was to take place, where our thoughts or actions would be centered – for the benefit of others like the Savior or internal, more concern on what will happen to us. I know that I would need some personal time. But, I hope like Lehi, I would want to bless my family and express my love and appreciation for them. Then why don’t I spend the time to do it now? Indeed at that moment the time for preparation is over.

Alma 34:32 –

For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors.

Now is the time for us to put things in order – or at least to show our desires to come unto Christ. To lay aside our favorite sins and prepare both physically and spiritually.

Thankfully, to the righteous the Savior will not come unexpectedly – no we will not know exactly the hour or the day.

The Savior used a parable to help His follower to understand -

Matt 24:32-33

Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:

So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the door.

When the leaves come on the trees we know that summer is nigh – what are the leaves that show us His coming is close?

Some of these signs include –

- Fulness of gospel restored and preached in all the world

- False Christ’s and false prophets

- Wars and rumors of wars

- Earthquakes in divers places

- Famine and pestilence

- Desolating sickness covering the land

- Iniquity abound

- Whole earth in commotion

- Men’s hearts failing them

These events or leaves will and are increasing in frequency. All of us have known this for years.

Brothers and sisters, we have all heard the parable of the 10 virgins many times. I have had a hard time understanding why half of them were waiting for the bride groom with their lamps in hand, knowing that they had no oil. Could it be that they had been told so many times that He was coming that they have become complacent, or have been deceived that it really will never happen.

D&C 42: 56-57

And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins.

For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day.

In the scriptures we learn that Noah preached for more than a hundred years – no wonder those that didn’t have the Spirit with them – were surprised when the rain actually began to fall.

The answer to our problem is included in the scripture – they that are wise, and receive the truth. Then have taken the Holy Spirit as their guide – shall abide the day.

All of us at baptism and when we partake of the sacrament - have the promise that if we are obedient the Holy Spirit will always be with us.

Following the quoting of this scripture – Elder Oaks stated

The other half will be denied entrance because they are not prepared. It is not enough to have received the truth. We must also “have taken the Holy Spirit for [our] guide” and “not [be] deceived.”

How do we take the Holy Spirit for our guide? We must repent of our sins each week and renew our covenants by partaking of the sacrament with clean hands and a pure heart, as we are commanded to do. Only in this way can we have the divine promise that we will “always have his Spirit to be with [us]”. That Spirit is the Holy Ghost, whose mission is to teach us, to lead us to truth, and to testify of the Father and the Son.

The Spirit of the Lord can and should be our guide and will bless us with direction, instruction, and spiritual protection as we allow it. We invite the Holy Ghost into our lives through meaningful personal and family prayer, feasting upon the words of Christ, through diligent and exacting obedience, faithfulness and honoring of covenants, and through dedicated service. And we should avoid anything that causes the Spirit to withdraw it‘s self from our lives.

Elder Bednar stated -

We should also endeavor to discern when we “withdraw [ourselves] from the Spirit of the Lord, that it may have no place in [us] to guide [us] in wisdom’s paths that [we] may be blessed, prospered, and preserved”. Precisely because the promised blessing is that we may always have His Spirit to be with us, we should attend to and learn from the choices and influences that separate us from the Holy Spirit.

Taking “the Holy Spirit for [our] guide” is possible and is essential for our spiritual growth and survival in an increasingly wicked world. Sometimes as Latter-day Saints we talk and act as though recognizing the influence of the Holy Ghost in our lives is the rare or exceptional event. We should remember, however, that the covenant promise is that we may always have His Spirit to be with us. This supernal blessing applies to every single member of the Church who has been baptized, confirmed, and instructed to “receive the Holy Ghost.”

The companionship of the Holy Ghost is the endless supply of oil for our spiritual preparation or lamps. The Spirit will help us to be able to know where and what we need to do, it motivates us unto repentance and truly dedicated service.

The last three verses of section 1 – the Lord gives us counsel and bears witness of the true of His word.

37 Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.

38 What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.

39 For behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the spirit beareth record, and the record is true, and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen.

Brothers and sisters, the rest of tonight and tomorrow we will hear from individuals – testifying for the need to prepare in different areas of our lives. This counsel will mean nothing or we may heed it like the unwise virgins, if we don’t have the spirit as our guide. We need to prepare now, first to invite the Holy Ghost as our constant companion. This is done by putting our lives in order – and coming unto Christ.

(Eastridge 2006 )Taking offence

(Eastridge 2006)

Brothers & sisters – it’s a pleasure to speak in my home ward! (Jokes and comments) - Close to home or with those that know their faults. Most of you know human side. (Church Ball)

A few years ago some of my so called friends were at a gathering at which a group of educators were discussing the worse students they have had over the years. One teacher started to tell about the worse she had ever seen and started to tell some of the things – I had supposedly done, none of which I had. I think she had rolled up every bad experience she had had and decided to give me credit. Many of those things at one point of my life I would have been happy to get credit for. In her defense I know I did some things that I shouldn’t have that gave her reason to remember me. I asked my friends if they defended me – since he was my counselor in the Bishopric – to which he said “heck no”. I think they were just enjoying the moment. The sobering part of this story is that she still held malice for me after all those years.

I grew up in a humble home where extra money was in short supply – for that reason I got a paper route to have a little spending money. If I wanted school lunch that came out of my own money – I remember buying some of my own clothes, as well as any extras I wanted. I remember once I wanted a kite – a black one with a scull and cross bones across the front. I lived across the street from the Whitter School on third north here in Logan and went to the play ground to fly my kite.

It was great as it scoured into the air. Then all the sudden there was a hole in my kite and it began to fall to the earth. I was devastated and had no idea what had happened. As I looked around there was a young man my age looking out his second story window with a pelt gun in his hand. He had shot my kite out of the air. I guess I should have thought – that was a great shot – but he had just destroyed my kite. I still remember he never apologized or offered to buy me a new kite.

Another story, I have told a number of times from this pulpit, isn’t about me - but my father – his mother died from complications of his birth, leaving his father alone with this little baby. Shortly there after he remarried – but his new wife was unwilling to treat my father him like one of her own, forced the issue, and my father was put into foster homes instead in their home. - More than forty years later, long after my grandfather had passed away, this stepmother met my father again and pleaded for his forgiveness, for what she had done to him as a child.

Brothers and sisters - every one of us have a number of stories where we or someone else has done something or acted in a stupid or inappropriate manner. They have caused many to become bitter, critical, and in some cases inactive in the church of Jesus Christ.

In our last conference – Elder Bednar gave a talk that made a big stir throughout the church. Two weeks ago as I was attending this ward, it was discussed four times in the three meetings that I attended. Could it be that too many of us can relate more than we are willing to admit. Have we taken offence or been the cause of someone else taking offence.

Elder David A. Bednar
of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles –

When we believe or say we have been offended, we usually mean we feel insulted, mistreated, snubbed, or disrespected. And certainly clumsy, embarrassing, unprincipled, and mean-spirited things do occur in our interactions with other people that would allow us to take offense. However, it ultimately is impossible for another person to offend you or to offend me. Indeed, believing that another person offended us is fundamentally false. To be offended is a choice we make; it is not a condition inflicted or imposed upon us by someone or something else.

First he stated that indeed events happen that are inappropriate, many times unintentionally that allow other to take offense.

One of these sobering times for me, took place when I was Bishop of this ward, as a family was having a major crisis’. They came to me for help – the first thing that they told me was that they almost hadn’t come because they thought I didn’t like them. The events that led to that conclusion were unintentional and completely unknown to me.

The scriptures are full of such example – can you imagine how the world would be if Ishmael’s and Esau’s descendents had no hard feeling for Jacob descendents especially the Jews. The starting of the Laminite and Nephite wars were because of differences between brothers. There are many other factors that have evolved over the centuries, but like the teacher that can’t remember why she didn’t like me as one of her students, if not taken care of, feeling of bitterness can enter our souls and cloud even the reasons we feel hurt, or have taken offence.

Because of human faults those serving in the church aren’t immune to offensive behavior.

Since the beginning of this dispensation the Lord has prepared his Prophet by calling them as the President of the Quorum of the Twelve first. The first President of the Quorum of the Twelve in this dispensation was Thomas B. Marsh. But he and his wife allowed themselves to take offence over something as inconsequential as sharing milk with a neighbor. Ultimately losing his position as well as their membership in the church. Brigham Young, on the other hand, was severely and publicly rebuked by the Prophet Joseph Smith, far worse than Brother Marsh, but he chose not to take offense.

Thankfully, I have been lucky enough to fall in the later category. Despite the fact the Bishop Larsen shot down my kite – I with out hesitation support and sustain him as our Bishop and as a man of God. The way that we react to these types of actions is our choice.

Elder Bednar -

In many instances, choosing to be offended is a symptom of a much deeper and more serious spiritual malady. Thomas B. Marsh allowed himself to be acted upon, and the eventual results were apostasy and misery. Brigham Young was an agent who exercised his agency and acted in accordance with correct principles, and he became a mighty instrument in the hands of the Lord.

That’s a hard statement for those of us that have taken offence to the actions of others. Could it be that spiritually we have some work to do?

1 Nephi 19:9 – is an example – of the Savior Jesus Christ

"And the world, because of their iniquity, shall judge him to be a thing of naught; wherefore they scourge him, and he suffereth it; and they smite him, and he suffereth it. Yea, they spit upon him, and he suffereth it, because of his loving kindness and his long-suffering towards the children of men"

It’s interesting to me that those that try to offend – as it stated do so “because of their iniquity” but the Savior “suffered it”. Why – “because of his loving kindness”.

The Savior should be our example when such situations come – our goal is to understand each others weaknesses and to have Christ like love and forgiveness. That is easier said than done. As we repent of our sins the Lord has promised to remember them no more – he has also told us too forgive our trespassers. If we want his forgiveness, we must be willing to give ours.

This is the very essence of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. We can only make the Atonement effective in our lives as we sacrifice our whole souls to the will of the Father. We must learn His will and follow it.

Psalm 199:165

"Great peace has they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them"

First we need to know the law, then as the scripture states to love it. This is achieved by study and becoming more Christ like.

As we forgive others their trespasses – that does not relieve them of their responsibility to repent and many times to make restitution. Sadly if that isn’t done by them, our forgiveness process becomes much harder.

But, the Savior upon the Cross continued this process – as he prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what ^they do.” He never shut the door that would allow His transgressor to come unto Him and to be clean. He never continued to bring up pass events or hold malice for mistakes or shortcoming that each of us continually make, and nether should we.

I believe most us - are holding on to some form of distain for another or could reach out to a family member, either close or extended, that needs a little extra love or nurturing. Most of us have been the cause of suffering or pain to another because of our actions. Sometimes the problem is that we have no idea that person has taken offence.

Elder Bednar -

The capacity to conquer offense may seem beyond our reach. …. The very nature of the Redeemer's Atonement and the purpose of the restored Church are intended to help us receive precisely this kind of spiritual strength.

Elder Bednar then likened the Church of Jesus Christ to a “Learning Laboratory” – I love this analogy, the teacher becomes a better teacher as they teach. We become more like the Savior Jesus Christ as we learn and apply His teachings.

He stated -

Understanding that the Church is a learning laboratory helps us to prepare for an inevitable reality. In some way and at some time, someone in this Church will do or say something that could be considered offensive. Such an event will surely happen to each and every one of us—and it certainly will occur more than once. Though people may not intend to injure or offend us, they nonetheless can be inconsiderate and tactless.

The problem with the learning laboratory is that each of us is learning at different paces and even different lessons. I guarantee you that maybe one minute, or maybe an hour – or even a day Bishop Larsen has been a bad Bishop during his first year of service. But so has every other Bishop or leader in the Church, including myself. When they know they have done something wrong – hopefully they can take care of it, and learn for the next opportunity to serve.

These learning experiences are very difficult for many of us, they become much easier as we encourage and support each other rather than to criticize or find fault.

If taking offence is a sign of more serious spiritual weaknesses – the higher road is to do everything in our power, not only to not take offence but when we learn that others are having a hard time with ours or others actions, we should ask for forgiveness and try to make things right. You may learn that from their point of view it may have been hard for you to accept as well.

There are numerous examples of individuals who have risen to great heights, despite reasons or opportunities to feel sorry for themselves or give up.

- Joseph who was sold into Egypt as a slave by his brothers. Then was accused by Potiphar’s wife of misconduct. Despite this, and because of his faithfulness, the Lord blessed him and raised him up too be the second most powerful man in the most powerful country in the world. Then he was then able to help those that had despised him and persecuted him.

- One that I hold in as high esteem is my father – despite his early childhood, he found the Church of Jesus Christ and raised ten children and has sixty grandchildren. Never have any of us questioned whether he had a testimony of God the Father and the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He was the best father and teacher I could have had.

The Greatest example is that of the life and mission of the Lord and Savior - Jesus Christ. Despite being perfect and sinless he suffered every temptation, every pain and sorrow – was persecuted beyond belief or comparison. But, because he was perfect and sinless he paid the price of sin – answered the end of the law. Why? Because of his loving kindness” for every one of us.

In speaking about the Savior-

MOSIAH 15: 10-12

10 And now I say unto you, who shall declare his ^ageneration? Behold, I say unto you, that when his soul has been made an offering for ^bsin he shall see his ^cseed. And now what say ye? And who shall be his seed?

11 Behold I say unto you, that whosoever has heard the words of the ^aprophets, yea, all the holy prophets who have prophesied concerning the coming of the Lord—I say unto you, that all those who have hearkened unto their words, and believed that the Lord would redeem his people, and have looked forward to that day for a remission of their sins, I say unto you, that these are his seed, or they are the heirs of the ^bkingdom of God.

12 For these are they whose sins ^ahe has borne; these are they for whom he has died, to redeem them from their transgressions. And now, are they not his seed?

When we are baptized into the church – we take upon us the name of Christ, we are confirmed and member of His Church. We make covenants and promises that we renew each week as we partake of the sacrament.

But, this does not make us His seed. As the scripture states we must hearken and believe in the works of God and His prophets, looking forward for a remission of our sins. These are action words – which can not be achieved by being a passive bystander in the kingdom of God.

If we are true followers of Christ and members of His church would we need a talk like this one?

Mosiah 3: 19

19 For the ^anatural ^bman is an ^cenemy to God, and has been from the ^dfall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he ^eyields to the enticings of the Holy ^fSpirit, and ^gputteth off the ^hnatural man and becometh a ⁱsaint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a ^jchild, ^ksubmissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.

Brothers and sister – you are wonderful! I would like to ask – what difference will our time here today make in our lives and our relationship with the Savior Jesus Christ. We have partaken of the sacrament – renewing our covenants.

Let’s put off the natural man

– forgive someone that has treated us poorly

– ask for forgiveness for our shortcomings

– forgive and forget past actions of others

– remember the Savior won’t remember them any more

Why should we?

The irony of this topic is that someone here today, may have taken offence with what has been said – or with the messenger, because of my personal weaknesses. If any of you have taken offence because of me over the years – I’m sorry and ask for your forgiveness. I have faults and weaknesses – but a blessing, I have that I’m thankful for is my testimony -

(HP quorum meeting – stake)

Last Sunday – Let us all pass on in the Work of the Lord

Our Relationship as Husband and Wives.

When I was given this assignment – I asked my wife for advice, she laughed and said “I can’t wait to hear what you will say about that.”

Being a High Priest group meeting – we have a number of couples that have been married more than 50 years – I don’t think there are many newly –weds. I do not claim to be the most qualified to give this talk. But, this is a topic that is one of the most important responsibilities for our salvation and exaltation. As well as for our happiness on a daily basis.

(Heard on Radio) – on way to work 10/10/2006

Marriage in Norway at the lowest levels since WWII – people aren’t getting married, and when they are married the average age of the bride is 30 years of age.

On talk show last Tuesday night – they estimated more people are living together out of wedlock than are married in the U.S.

The Family: A Proclamation to the World

We warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

They then gave us a charge -

We call upon responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.

The Lord gave us the key-

EPHESIANS - CHAPTER 5

25 ^aHusbands, ^blove your ^cwives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

What did the Savior do for the Church?

He laid down his life for it,

He nurtured it,

He sanctified it.

He provided the means by which it might succeed.

And as it said in the scripture He loved it.

Elder Perry - Your Eternal Companion is your first priority!

He then gave us counsel on what to do -

“Begin by discussing with your eternal companion how much time you need together to strengthen your marriage, to demonstrate the love you have for each other. That is your first priority.”

“The Church is to help individuals and families come unto Christ and obtain eternal life. Eternal life is God’s greatest gift to His children, and it is obtained only through a family relationship. This relationship must start with the union between husband and wife, which is sacred to the Lord and is something not to be trifled with.”

Being a Righteous Husband and Father

President Howard W. Hunter

Keep yourselves above any domineering or unworthy behavior in the tender, intimate relationship between husband and wife. Because marriage is ordained of God, the intimate relationship between husbands and wives is good and honorable in the eyes of God. He has commanded that they be one flesh and that they multiply and replenish the earth (see Moses 2:28; Moses 3:24). You are to love your wife as Christ loved the Church and gave himself for it (see Eph. 5:25–31).

Tenderness and respect—never selfishness—must be the guiding principles in the intimate relationship between husband and wife. Each partner must be considerate and sensitive to the other’s needs and desires. Any domineering, indecent, or uncontrolled behavior in the intimate relationship between husband and wife is condemned by the Lord.

The House of the Lord

Elder Robert L. Simpson
Of the First Quorum of the Seventy

The ultimate blessings of the temple are centered in the love and devotion between husband and wife. They must set the example—they are the core. The scriptures say it best of all: “Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord” (1 Cor. 11:11). Everything in this world that is counter to a tender and loyal husband-wife relationship is a tool of the adversary. Everything that promotes and perpetuates family unity—mother, father, and children properly endowed with and motivated by the light and truth of Christ—is in harmony with the Lord’s plan for mortal man.

Safe Place for Marriages and Families

Sister Barbara B. Smith
Relief Society General President

2. A marriage made safe by both love and consecration can allow for a variety of opinions.

For a man and wife to become one there are many differences, large and small, that must be accommodated or resolved. In a marriage relationship that is secure, differences need not lead to discord. They can be openly considered until a satisfactory solution is reached because the premises are agreed upon: both the husband and wife are committed to love one another, to build the kingdom of God, and to establish an eternal family unit. All considerations are made in light of these three basic commitments—these are the “givens.” When they are held inviolate, the marriage remains intact, even though the process of resolution may involve considerable discussion.

Marriage and Family:
Our Sacred Responsibility

Elder W. Douglas Shumway
Of the Seventy

Marriage is meant to be and must be a loving, binding, harmonious relationship between a man and a woman. When a husband and a wife understand that the family is ordained of God and that marriage can be filled with promises and blessings extending into the eternities, separation and divorce would seldom be a consideration in the Latter-day Saint home. Couples would realize that the sacred ordinances and covenants made in the house of the Lord provide the means whereby they can return to the presence of God.

Marriage and Divorce

Elder David B. Haight
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

It would seem that a major underlying cause of divorce is in not understanding that marriage and families are God-given and God-ordained. If we understood the full meaning we would have less divorce and its attendant unhappiness. Couples would plan for a happy marriage relationship based on divine instruction. If couples understood from the beginning of their romance that their marriage relationship could be blessed with promises and conditions extending into the eternities, divorce would not even be a considered alternative when difficulties arise. The current philosophy—get a divorce if it doesn’t work out—handicaps a marriage from the beginning.

Nurturing Marriage

Elder Russell M. Nelson
Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Marriage is both a commandment and an exalting principle of the gospel. 12 Because it is ordained of God, the intimate physical expressions of married love are sacred. Yet all too commonly, these divine gifts are desecrated. If a couple allows lewd language or pornography to corrupt their intimacy, they offend their Creator while they degrade and diminish their own divine gifts. True happiness is predicated upon personal purity. 13 Scripture commands: “Be ye clean.” 14 Marriage should ever be a covenant to lift husbands and wives to exaltation in celestial glory.

Priesthood authority has been restored so that families can be sealed eternally. So brethren, your foremost priesthood duty is to nurture your marriage—to care for, respect, honor, and love your wife. Be a blessing to her and your children.

With these doctrinal underpinnings in mind, let us consider the second step—specific actions that would strengthen a marriage. I will offer sample suggestions and invite each couple privately to ponder them and adapt them as needed to their own particular circumstances.

My suggestions use three action verbs: to appreciate, to communicate, and to contemplate.

To appreciate—to say “I love you” and “thank you”—is not difficult. But these expressions of love and appreciation do more than acknowledge a kind thought or deed. They are signs of sweet civility. As grateful partners look for the good in each other and sincerely pay compliments to one another, wives and husbands will strive to become the persons described in those compliments.

Suggestion number two—to communicate well with your spouse—is also important. Good communication includes taking time to plan together. Couples need private time to observe, to talk, and really listen to each other. They need to cooperate—helping each other as equal partners. They need to nurture their spiritual as well as physical intimacy. They should strive to elevate and motivate each other. Marital unity is sustained when goals are mutually understood. Good communication is also enhanced by prayer. To pray with specific mention of a spouse’s good deed (or need) nurtures a marriage.

My third suggestion is to contemplate. This word has deep meaning. It is the root from which the word temple comes. If couples contemplate often—with each other in the temple—sacred covenants will be better remembered and kept. Frequent participation in temple service and regular family scripture study nourish a marriage and strengthen faith within a family. Contemplation allows one to anticipate and to resonate (or be in tune) with each other and with the Lord. Contemplation will nurture both a marriage and God’s kingdom. The Master said, “Seek not the things of this world but seek ye first to build up the kingdom of God, and to establish his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” 17

Begin with sincere desire. Identify those actions needed to bless your spiritual unity and purpose.

When you as husband and wife recognize the divine design in your union—when you feel deeply that God has brought you to each other—your vision will be expanded and your understanding enhanced. Such feelings are expressed in words of a song that has long been a favorite of mine:

28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his ^awife loveth himself.

29 For no man ever yet ^ahated his own ^bflesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

30 For we are ^amembers of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be ^aone flesh. his ^awife loveth himself.

Elder David A. Bednar

Question 1: In my own life, am I striving to become a better husband or a wife, or preparing to be a husband or a wife, by understanding and applying these basic principles?

All human beings—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and . . . has a divine nature and destiny.”³ The great plan of happiness enables the spirit sons and daughters of Heavenly Father to obtain physical bodies, to gain earthly experience, and to progress toward perfection.

Principle 1: The importance of eternal marriage can be understood only within the context of the Father’s plan of happiness.

Principle 2: Satan desires that all men and women might be miserable like unto himself.

Principle 3: The ultimate blessings of love and happiness are obtained through the covenant relationship of eternal marriage.

Husbands and wives need time together to fortify themselves and their homes against the attacks of the adversary. As we strive to magnify our callings in the Church, are we unintentionally hindering husbands and wives and mothers and fathers from fulfilling their sacred responsibilities in the home? For example, do we sometimes schedule unnecessary meetings and activities in a way that interferes with the essential relationship between a husband and a wife and their relationships with children?

We, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity.

Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children.

Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.

We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God

7th Ward - Heritage

7^th Ward –the flagship ward of the Stake. Like the ward I grew up in, Logan 5th - Temple Worker - University Kids - Few Young Families

What a blessing that time was in my life.

My scout master in his 60’s – AC Hull was the 1^st Eagle Scout in the State of Idaho. The 2nd Eagle Scout was some kid named Howard W. Hunter. His scout master was some guy named Ezra Taft Benson.

Elder Uchtdorf’s mother-in-law was one of the widows living in our ward; she had a strong German accent – what a faithful and wonderful woman.

President Benson’s wife grew up in our ward and as the President of the twelve and as the prophet he and his wife would show up when possible. I remember on more than one occasion seeing the Bishop jump up and run down the aisle to greet the Prophet as he would show up unannounced.

-Original Logan wards - have a rich history and heritage.

-Making a foundation of faith and dedication that has influenced thousand to come unto Christ.

To you younger members of this ward – the counsel of President Packer is important.

“Young (people): Do not be so very foolish as to miss this association with the older (brothers and) sisters. They will bring more worth into your life than much of the activity you enjoy so much.”

In deed those that have experienced the paths of life have a clearer perspective of what is important or essential. That’s a concept that my teenagers have failed to grasp at this time of their lives.

The Prophet Joseph Smith said,

“The way to get along in any important matter is to gather unto yourselves wise men [and women], experienced and aged men [and women], to assist in council in all times of trouble.

Great example of this is in the Old Testament – Moses a prophet called of God – after he had led the children of Israel out of bondage began to counsel with those that needed it.

Exodus 18

13 ¶ And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to ^ajudge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.

14 And when Moses’ father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?

15 And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to ^aenquire of God:

17 And Moses’ father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.

18 Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is ^atoo heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.

19 Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee:

The Lord used his father-in-law to show the Prophet how to serve in his responsibilities. He show Moses the Lords way of taking care of his people. He had experience!

The Apostle Paul – counseled the aged – Titus 2: 4-7

4 That they (the aged) may teach the young ^awomen to be sober, to ^blove their husbands, to love their children,

5 To be discreet, ^achaste, ^bkeepers at ^chome, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

6 Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, ^agravity, ^bsincerity,

What better groups to teach or set an example than those that have experienced the ups and downs of life?

Occasionally the older generation believes that their time of service is spent and they aren’t as useful in the service of God. But Paul’s counsel states otherwise, your teaching and examples are wonderful opportunities to testify, edify and instruct the rising generations.

Elder Packer gave a talk a few years ago that he entitled the Golden Years – he stated:

“Have you ever wondered why the Lord organized the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles so that the senior leadership of the Church will always be older men? This pattern of seniority values wisdom and experience over youth and physical vigor.

The average age of the Presidency and the Twelve at the present time is 77 years old. We are not very nimble. We may be past our prime. Nevertheless, the Lord ordered it to be this way.

A conference or two ago, Joseph Wirthlin said he was going to challenge the members of the Twelve to a race. I thought once, “Well, I’ll accept the challenge.” Then I thought it would be safer to race against 96-year-old Brother David Haight. I thought that over and decided that David might trip me with his cane, and I would lose the race. So I gave it up!”

Since that quote Elder Haight has passed away and a couple of younger Apostles have been called – but the concept is the same, the Lord values wisdom and experience.

With age also comes a number of challenges, these cause some of our faithful saints to be home bound or unable to serve in curtain capacities. That does not change their wisdom and experience – and even though their activity at church has changed, their activity in the gospel and the strength of their testimony has not.

Our opportunity and challenge is to seek them out and let them know that their worth and examples haven’t diminished. No matter what age we are the purpose of the Church of Jesus Christ is to bring all mankind unto Christ. There is no age requirement on receiving a manifestation from the Holy Ghost that God lives and Jesus is the Christ.

Elder Packer cont…

Bishop: Do you realize that some problems you worry about so much with the youth, and with others, could be solved if they would stay close to their fathers and mothers and to their grandparents, to the older folks?

All of the attention given to our youth, all of the programs, all we do for them, will be incomplete unless we teach them the purpose of the Restoration. The keys of the priesthood were restored and the sealing authority revealed and temples built to tie the generations together. From ancient times through all the revelations runs that eternal, golden thread, “Turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers” (Mal. 4:6).

That scripture is used with temple and genealogy work as well. But those hearts should be turned to our fathers, mothers and grandparent for the rich heritage of the gospel and the freedoms we have in this great country.

One my greatest hero’s is my father – many of you older members would know him as the Judge! He was a judge here in Logan for more than thirty years. (life story)

Nothing was more important to his than his family – 10 kids and 60 grandchildren.

I have a strong heritage of Love and an example of service. He always had and fulfilled his responsibility in the kingdom of God. (ham on the run)

It wasn’t because I was faster than him that I was asked to go!

Exodus 20:12

Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee”

To honour our parents or those that have made sacrifices in our behalf, helps us to remain humble and thankful for our blessing.

In this building there is a young married ward that is associated with the married University Stakes. It would be inappropriate, but I would love to talk in their sacrament meeting and tell them what a great opportunity their missing by not associating with their senior neighbors.

Brothers and sisters, one year ago this month my mother pasted away. She had been a widow for more than ten years. A few days before her passing, I had the opportunity to sit in her living room with her, just the two of us. We laughed and talked about Dad. We expressed our loves for each other. That exchange means so much to me. If I had known that it would be the last time I was to see her, the only thing I would have done different would have been to extend it longer.

At her passing no flags flew at half-mask, the Governor didn’t declare it a holiday. But more than 100 direct descendants sat in a chapel honoring her wisdom and testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ.

In thinking about her life, I love a quote given by Elder Eyring-

Your service may not be in what the world would recognize as a lofty calling. When the real value of service become clear in the judgment of God. Some people who worked in quiet anonymity will be the real hero’s. Many of them, perhaps most of them will be the underpaid, under recognized people, who nurtured others.”

In the end – what calling we have had in the church, what honors we have achieved in the world, how much wealth we have accumulated will make no difference? The only thing that will matter is our relationship and testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ, and our relationship with our families and those whom we have come in contact with. Are we one of those that nurtured others.

Like I said the 7^th Ward – has a rich and wonderful heritage. But there are many of its members that aren’t here. Some because of inactivity, others are unable to get out. The scriptures say that pure ^areligion, undefiled before God and the Father is this, To ^bvisit the ^cfatherless and ^dwidows in their affliction, and to keep ourselves ^funspotted from ^gthe ^hworld.

This is what the gospel of Jesus Christ is all about – it’s not social events or youth conferences, these are fun, but it’s the unselfish service and dedication we give to those that are in need – to be a friend to the friendless, and example for those that need direction.

At the judgment bar of Christ which side will we be on –

Matt 25: 34-40 (-46)

Then shall the King say unto them on his ^aright hand, Come, ye ^bblessed of my Father, ^cinherit the ^dkingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

For I was an ^ahungred, and ye ^bgave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a ^cstranger, and ye took me in:

Naked and ye clothed me: I was sick and ye ^avisited me: I was in ^bprison, and ye came unto me.

Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

Or when saw we thee ^asick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have ^adone it unto one of the ^bleast of these my ^cbrethren, ye have done it unto me.

-Then shall he say also unto them on the ^aleft hand, ^bDepart from me, ye ^ccursed, into everlasting ^dfire, ^eprepared for the devil and his angels:

For I was an ^ahungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:

I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the ^aleast of these, ye did it not to me.

And these shall go away into ^aeverlasting ^bpunishment: but the ^crighteous into life ^eeternal.